Get Puzzled

CAUTION: Puzzles may induce a meditative state. They may cause people of all ages to be quiet and focused. They may encourage people to unite and work together to solve a problem.

If I were Oprah, I think I'd buy you a puzzle and you a puzzle and you a puzzle....

We jest. But seriously, got a puzzle lover on your list? We have some of the most clever and mind-bindingly fun games and puzzles to keep them busy for hours! And some of them are made right here in Texas.

Great for a guest house. Hostess gift. White elephant. Design aficionado. The person you have no idea what else to get.

Doesn't require batteries AND may incite people to find a common goal. Solving a puzzle. Seems like a cool idea.

Throw one in your bag to keep the kids (all ages) entertained so you can visit. We keep one on the counter and find kids as well as adults drawn to the challenge.

I'll bet they will like them better than schnitzel with noodles....at least they won't make such a mess in their stockings!

For reference, there are seriously so many documented benefits from some old school puzzling.

PROBLEM SOLVING

There is one task when puzzling – to join the pieces up to create the image. Although there are many different options, there is only one correct solution which motivates all to see the challenge through.

MEDITATIVE

Completing a jigsaw has a similar effect to meditation as it generates a sense of calmness and peace. Because our minds are focused, we find ourselves concentrating on the puzzle alone which empties our brains of the stresses and anxieties that we face every day.

IMPROVED ATTENTION SPAN

Jigsaw puzzles are known for the addictive effect they have on those who try to complete them. Once you start, you simply can’t stop! The varying colors, shapes and sizes of the pieces hold the attention of even the most impatient of people.

FINE MOTOR SKILLS

Jigsaw puzzles are fantastic when improving fine motor skills which is why they are often completed by toddlers and young children. Yet this is still relevant for adults as the small pieces require people to work carefully to slot the pieces together.

BALANCED BRAIN

Completing a jigsaw works both sides of your brain, the left-hand-side that thinks logically and the right; the creative, intuitive and emotional side. So, when you piece together a jigsaw puzzle, you harness both brainpowers.

MEMORY IMPROVEMENT

Jigsaws have been proven to sharpen our memories as puzzlers must remember where a certain piece fits within the wider picture, which can be tricky if you have had a break for a week or two.

SOCIAL SKILLS

Completing a jigsaw with a friend or family member promotes discussion and interaction as team work is essential for finishing a tricky puzzle!

INDEPENDENCE

Completing a jigsaw puzzle is also a fantastic solo pastime, especially for those who live alone. The hobby is so absorbing that hours can whizz by without you realizing!

PERSEVERANCE AND RESILIENCE

Jigsaw puzzles are hard to complete and the satisfaction one feels after slotting in the final piece of a frustrating jigsaw is second to know. Completing a jigsaw requires persistence and is an important lesson for all ages.

TRADITIONAL FUN

In 2018, we are swamped by technology and there are now very few hobbies that don’t require an app, TV or element of digital technology to enhance them. Completing a jigsaw puzzle is a fun and entertaining pastime that enjoyed without any kind of electronic involvement. It can completely segregate you from the digital world which, in a world dominated by tweets, trends and snapchat stories, can be essential to our mental well-being.